Are Symptoms a Cold or Airborne Allergy

Colds and Allergies Have Similar Symptoms but Prevention Differs

Oct 29, 2008

Colds and allergies have symptoms in common, such as nasal problems and sneezing. Find the source of the condition to prevent future outbreaks.

The cold and flu season is coming around, along with the nasty symptoms, including sniffles, coughing, puffy eyes and wheezing. Many of the symptoms of colds are similar to allergic symptoms. While colds are of temporary duration, allergic symptoms are chronic. It is important to determine whether it is a cold or allergy causing the symptoms, because treatment and prevention varies.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, NIAID, has a chart on their website, that was produced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Health. The chart is a simple guideline that lists the differing symptoms of colds and airborne allergies. Following are the symptoms listed in each condition.

Symptoms of Cold

Symptoms of Airborne Allergy

This information is a quick and easy way to help determine whether symptoms are a cold or allergy. However, it still is not clear cut. Some of the symptoms could be either cold or allergy. Runny and/or stuffy nose is common in both colds and allergies. Sneezing is also a common symptom. The information is a guideline, but not a clear cut diagnosis, which is why a visit to the doctor is called for when the symptoms are severe or last for several days.

Treatment and Medications

Some common treatments are used for both colds and allergies, such as antihistamines and decongestants. It is possible to take an over the counter medicine and have it work effectively for either condition.

Complications of Colds and Allergies

Both colds and allergies can develop into more serious complications, including sinus infections and asthma. Colds are more likely to develop into a middle ear infection.

Prevention

Prevention is where the difference is clear cut. In order to prevent future outbreaks, it is important to determine the cause because prevention of cold is different from prevention of allergies.

Prevent colds by washing hands often and avoiding exposure to anyone infected with a cold.

Prevention of airborne allergies includes avoidance of allergens. Airborne allergies are caused by exposure to pollen, mold, house dust mites, pet dander and cockroaches.

People with colds should be considerate about exposing themselves to other people, so the condition is not spread. Allergic people may not be contagious, but they may not be pleasant to be around.

Consult a Doctor

Symptoms of colds and allergies may respond to the same medication, but prevention is very different. In order to prevent future outbreaks, try to determine the cause. Consult a family doctor or allergist for further information.

The copyright of the article Are Symptoms a Cold or Airborne Allergy in Allergies is owned by Christine Nyholm. Permission to republish Are Symptoms a Cold or Airborne Allergy in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.